Ex-General Golan Accuses Netanyahu of Political War

Democrats party chairman Yair Golan accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of extending Israel’s ongoing conflicts for political reasons during a visit to the southern city of Arad, which was recently hit by an Iranian ballistic missile.

Golan, a former IDF general and prominent opposition figure, said Netanyahu is failing to translate military gains into long-term security, arguing that the government is deliberately maintaining a wartime posture.

“Netanyahu has turned national security into a tool for his political survival,” Golan said. “Instead of leading toward a decisive outcome and stabilizing the situation, he is dragging the war out because its end would necessitate elections and a change in government.”

He added that Israel has been in what he described as a prolonged state of conflict for more than two years, without a clear strategy to conclude it.

Golan’s remarks reflect growing criticism from opposition figures, who have become more vocal in recent weeks regarding the government’s handling of the war and broader decision-making.

Israel is currently scheduled to hold elections by October, though political instability could bring the vote forward.

In separate remarks, Golan also warned against relying solely on military force in Lebanon, arguing that without a parallel diplomatic strategy, Israel risks being drawn into a prolonged conflict without achieving lasting security outcomes.